National Citizen Party (NCP) Chief Organiser (South) Hasnat Abdullah today warned that August 5 would return if the administration goes against the people, stressing that the role of officials will determine whether power goes to those who rig votes or to the public.

“This election has been paid for with the blood of 1,400 martyrs. If the administration goes against the people of Bangladesh, August 5 will come again,” he said while addressing an election rally organised by the 11-party alliance at Government Pilot High School field in Nabinagar upazila of Brahmanbaria this afternoon.

Directing his remarks at administrative and senior police officials, Hasnat said, “If you hand over the country to vote thieves, one day they will order you to fire bullets on the streets at your own children.”

Criticising corruption within law enforcement, Hasnat said figures like “Benazir and Harun” had re-emerged, urging police officials to learn lessons from past abuses of power. He claimed that in future elections, no money would be needed for SPs, OCs, or SIs.

Hasnat further stated that the NCP’s goal is not merely to change political players but to change the rules of politics itself, promising a corruption-free Bangladesh.

He also criticised sections of the media, alleging biased coverage.

The NCP leader said grassroots journalists often see their reports edited out, while major outlets openly promote a particular party, especially the BNP. “If the media fails to remain neutral in the next election, people will show the media a 'red card' as well,” he said.

The rally was presided over by Bangladesh Khelafat Majlis Nabinagar unit Ameer Mokhlesur Rahman and also addressed by district Jamaat Ameer Maulana Mobarak Hossain, along with other leaders of the 11-party alliance.